Shipping International Orders for Sellers

International customs authorities require specific product information to clear shipments. Missing or incorrect data will cause delays, customs holds, or package rejections.

Configuring International Product Data

1Navigate to Products → All Products.

2Search for the SKU you want to configure and click Edit.

Click to expand image

3On the Product General Info tab, scroll to the For International Shipping section.

4Select the Country of Origin - the country where the product was manufactured. If the product is composed of multiple components (e.g., a computer), list the country of final assembly.

Click to expand image

5Enter the Harmonized Code (also called HS Code or HTS Code).

6Enter the Manufacturer name.

7Enter a Brief Product Description that includes:

• Manufacturer name
• Product color
• Material composition
• Other identifying details

Click to expand image

8Click Save to apply your changes.

Updating Multiple Products at Once

International product data fields (Harmonized Code, Country of Origin, Manufacturer, Brief Description) are not currently available for bulk updates through the standard CSV import process.

For now, international product data must be configured individually for each SKU using the process described above.

International shipments require customs documentation in addition to the shipping label. The type of documentation depends on the carrier you're using.

Printing from Print and Ship My Orders Page

1Navigate to Print and Ship My Orders.

2Identify international orders that require additional forms. These will be clearly marked in the order list.

Click to expand image

3To print customs forms in bulk, click Print → Print Other Forms (8.5x11).

Click to expand image

Click to expand image

4After printing customs forms, print packing slips and shipping labels as you normally would.

Printing from Individual Order Page

You can also print customs forms directly from the Sales Order Details page:

1Open the specific order.

2Click the Print dropdown and select Print Other Forms.

Click to expand image

Click to expand image

Adding Consignee Tax ID (When Required)

Some countries require the recipient's tax identification number on the shipping label for customs clearance. This is most common for shipments to Brazil, Chile, South Korea, and China.

To add a consignee tax ID:

• Option 1: Edit the customer's address and add the tax ID to the Company field
• Option 2: Add it directly when creating the shipping label in the Referance Lines field

Click to expand image

Proper attachment of shipping labels and customs documentation is critical for international shipments. Follow these steps to ensure your packages meet carrier requirements.

Packing and Labeling Sequence

1Place all products and the packing slip inside the package.

2Seal the package securely with packing tape.

3Attach the shipping label to the top of the package, ensuring it's flat and readable.

4Sign all customs forms where indicated.

5Fold customs forms in half so the top portion with key information remains visible when inserted in the pouch.

Click to expand image

6Attach a clear self-adhesive document pouch to the package exterior, adjacent to the shipping label.

7Insert the folded customs forms into the pouch, ensuring all text is visible through the clear material.

8Verify the pouch is securely attached and the forms cannot fall out during transit.

Final Quality Check

Before handing packages to the carrier, verify:

• ✓ Shipping label is clearly visible and securely attached
• ✓ Customs forms are signed where required
• ✓ Document pouch is firmly attached to package exterior
• ✓ All customs form information is visible through the pouch
• ✓ No other labels or markings obscure the shipping label or customs documents
• ✓ Package is properly sealed and secure for international transit

What happens if I'm missing international product data?

You'll encounter a "No Service" error when attempting to create shipping labels. You must configure all required international fields (Harmonized Code, Country of Origin, Manufacturer, Brief Description) before you can ship internationally. See Troubleshooting: "No Service" Errors for detailed resolution steps.

What's the difference between DDU and DDP?

DDU (Delivery Duty Unpaid) means the recipient pays customs duties upon delivery. DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) means you prepay all duties and taxes at checkout. Your Cahoot account is configured for one or the other. Contact Cahoot Support if you need to change this setting. Learn more in Understanding International Customs Charges.

Which carriers should I use for international shipping?

This depends on destination, package size, and transit time requirements. See the International Shipping FAQ for a complete comparison of USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL services.

How do I handle customs delays or holds?

Customs delays are typically due to incomplete documentation, unclear product descriptions, or the destination country's inspection process. Ensure all product data is complete and accurate. For packages held at customs, the recipient may need to provide additional information or pay duties before release. See Understanding International Customs Charges for guidance on customer communication.

How do international returns work?

International returns require special handling. Many sellers do not accept international returns due to high costs. Learn how to Create Return Labels and Direct Shipment Labels. 

What items can't be shipped internationally?

Common restrictions include lithium batteries, hazardous materials, perishables, alcohol, and tobacco. Requirements vary by destination country and carrier. Always verify restrictions before accepting international orders. See International Shipping FAQ for detailed prohibited items list.